Oil Depot Irregularities Under Scrutiny: Justice Minister's Update

During a press conference on April 8, 2026, Justice Minister Ruttapon Naowarat addressed the ongoing investigations targeting oil depot operations throughout Thailand. The event was attended by key officials from several agencies, including the Royal Thai Police, the Department of Special Investigation, and representatives from the Ministries of Energy and Commerce.

The Minister indicated that this inquiry is a response to government efforts to avert fuel shortages and guarantee the proper distribution of oil across the country. Authorities are actively monitoring fuel trading from source to destination, with various agencies assigned to different stages of the supply chain. Coordinated operations were executed in provinces like Rayong, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon, and Khon Kaen.

Initial findings have brought to light several irregularities. One instance revealed that oil received from depots was not adequately delivered to gas stations, breaching trading regulations. Another case involved a depot that continued operations despite having its license revoked. Authorities also identified delays in oil distribution ahead of price hikes, along with incidents of false reporting to government bodies.

Officials have stressed that more stringent controls will be introduced on oil transport routes, delivery schedules, and stockpiling practices. The government is committed to ensuring transparency, preventing disruptions in supply, and maintaining public trust through coordinated actions among all relevant authorities.